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calm

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noun

calm

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verb

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a calm demeanor
a cool demeanor
a placid demeanor
a tranquil demeanor
a peaceful demeanor
a relaxed demeanor
calm determination
quiet determination
cool determination
stoic determination
placid determination
tranquil determination
calm dignity
quiet dignity
serene dignity
tranquil dignity
placid dignity
gentle dignity
calm wind
gentle wind
soft wind
mild wind
light wind

Synonym Chooser

How is the word calm different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of calm are peaceful, placid, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than calm?

In some situations, the words peaceful and calm are roughly equivalent. However, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When might placid be a better fit than calm?

The words placid and calm can be used in similar contexts, but placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When would serene be a good substitute for calm?

Although the words serene and calm have much in common, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of calm?

The synonyms tranquil and calm are sometimes interchangeable, but tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of calm
Adjective
And safety officials say that’s exactly why early driver education and calm, intentional practice are so important. Sydney Barragan, Oc Register, 26 June 2025 Overall, the collection was a calm blend of sharp tailoring, streetwear staples, and polished off-duty pieces. Julian Randall, Essence, 25 June 2025
Noun
Rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s, chia seeds help to lower cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 23 June 2025 But if 15 years of zombie mayhem have taught fans anything, its to always expect danger around the corner from calm. Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 23 June 2025
Verb
Chill the teeth, the tongue, calm the mind… except maybe not for our final question of the day? Kristen Arnett june 26, Literary Hub, 26 June 2025 Tensions have also risen elsewhere in recent weeks, particularly in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, with both Russia and the United States seeking to calm the situation. Dan Gooding barney Henderson, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for calm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for calm
Adjective
  • Without it, people go quiet, engagement drops and growth stalls.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Young visitors will enjoy the splash pad and water slide, while guests ages 18 and older are welcome to relax in the quiet adults-only pool and hot tub.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Big Momma the alligator is one of his muses, as are curious bobcats and the serene landscape.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 June 2025
  • The entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a kaleidoscope of lush valleys, dramatic waterfalls and serene lagoons.
    Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful, and U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed that Tehran is not actively pursuing a bomb.
    Jon Gambrell, Fortune, 26 June 2025
  • My students said these are small, unexpected spots that provide an excellent opportunity for a quiet, peaceful break, to be present, whether enjoyed alone or with a friend.
    Eric Zillmer, The Conversation, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • Trump has warned Iran against taking any retaliatory actions, warning of additional attacks if the country does not make meaningful efforts towards peace.
    Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 23 June 2025
  • Less than a decade later, Eisenhower, by then the U.S. President, lamented that American troops appeared destined to undergird peace in Europe forever.
    Joshua Yaffa, New Yorker, 23 June 2025
Verb
  • Great as a hostess or housewarming gift, the soap works even better when taking the form of a self-care purchase that will soothe your skin with shea butter.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 20 June 2025
  • The spa menu boasts a long list of bodywork treatments options, including the fire & ice massage, which soothes sore muscles with a combination of hot stones and cooling recovery balm, facials and body scrubs using ingredients from the forest, and a fireside massage package for two.
    Elizabeth Brownfield, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • As of Monday evening, the fire crew effectively contained 65% of the wildfire.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2025
  • The Senate bill containing President Trump's domestic policy agenda at the last minute eliminated a new excise tax that would have hammered the renewable energy industry, a move that likely ensured Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski of Alaska would back the measure.
    Tracy J. Wholf July 1, CBS News, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Buyers are moving away from light and airy tones, favoring deeper hues that feel modern, tranquil, and organic.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 17 June 2025
  • Mercedes uses rich wood trim, white Nappa leather, white silk, and polished aluminum to create an atmosphere that's both tranquil and glamorous.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • McIlroy looked composed and steady at 2-under through nine.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Calm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/calm. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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